File No. 300.115/106
The Consul General at London (Skinner) to the Secretary of State
London, undated.
[Received August 27, 1914, 3 p.m.]
[Telegram]
Persons interested in cargoes other than enemy cargoes on captured ships may obtain order for release on submitting proof of ownership such as bills lading and particulars as to freight paid or unpaid to procurator general, Treasury, Whitehall, provided such proof is submitted prior to issuance of writ in prize-court action. If similar evidence is produced after issuance, of writ, procurator general will assent to order by court for release. The court determines time limit for production of documentary evidence. When a writ has been issued, an appearance to such writ should be entered by a solicitor at Admiralty marshal’s office within eight days thereof. The court will not question authority of a solicitor who enters appearance. American claimants can submit proof directly without solicitor to procurator general when certain that no writ has been issued. In other cases and if without London counsel, they should send the proofs and cable instructions to me to employ counsel if necessary. In case of Sloan, solicitor has been employed. Assurances have been given that due consideration will be given American claimants. Does Department desire list of diverted ships and cargo details?